Tips from the RCMP on Pedestrian Safety

With the changing weather and reduced number of daylight hours the concern for pedestrian safety increases. During the month of November, the RCMP will be extra vigilant that users of the roadways conduct themselves in such a manner to support the safety of pedestrians. The following are some recommended safety tips:

For drivers:

When approaching an intersection or crosswalk be alert for pedestrians.

Watch for vehicles stopped or slowing in the lane next to yours. They may be yielding to a pedestrian.

Stay alert and slow down on residential streets and through school and playground zones.

Failing to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk carries a fine of $776 plus 4 demerit points.

For pedestrians:

POINT, PAUSE, and PROCEED. Be alert at intersections and always look out for danger when crossing the street

Always use crosswalks and pedestrian-activated signals when they are available and cross only at intersections if they are not.

Never jaywalk. Drivers are not anticipating pedestrians crossing in the middle of the street so they may not have enough time to avoid hitting you.

Walk on the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk off the road, facing traffic, staying as far away from the vehicles as possible.

If you are impaired, seek assistance and alternative transportation. Alcohol is often a factor in serious pedestrian collisions. On average over one-third of pedestrians in fatal crashes and 15 per cent in injury crashes had consumed alcohol prior to the collision.